Evaluation of staining potential of 5% sodium fluoride varnish and coffee beverage on tooth-colored restorative materials: An in vitro study

The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the staining potential of 5% sodium fluoride varnish and coffee beverage on the tooth-colored restorative materials. Standardized Class V cavities were prepared on the tooth surface on both buccal and lingual/palatal surfaces and were restored with Glass ionomer cement (GIC), resin-modified GIC (RMGIC), and resin composite. The control group (n = 7) of each restoration was stored in artificial saliva. The experimental groups (n = 7) of each of the restoratives were subjected to the application of 5% sodium fluoride and were analyzed for discoloration using the visual method. In the second part of the study, 5% NaF was applied on all the restorations, namely, GIC, RMGIC, and Resin Composite. The control groups of each (n = 7) were then stored in artificial saliva and the experimental groups of each (n = 7) were immersed in coffee. After the period of immersion, the control, as well as the experimental groups, were analyzed for staining using the visual method. Data obtained were statistically analyzed using the Chi-square test. All the experimental groups were stained up to a visually perceptive level (P = 0.029) when compared to the control group. However, the intergroup comparison of experimental groups was statistically non-significant. Furthermore, RMGIC showed better stain resistance with coffee after application of 5% NaF than GIC and resin composite, although it was not statistically significant. 5% NaF application resulted in a shade change of all the restoratives tested in the study up to a visually perceptive level. The fluoride application did not significantly influence the staining potential of coffee in the restoratives tested.